Andrew Miller is the founder of Back to Basics Social Developments, a not-for-profit that that works on food, water, shelter and education projects that cater to those living in poverty. In the past two years, Back to Basics has grown and given away more than 20,000 pounds of vegetables to food banks and taught over 100 volunteers the art of organic farming.

Back to Basics works in collaboration with many local social agencies including: the Elizabeth Fry Society of Simcoe County, a women's shelter that houses the Grocery Assistance Program food bank "G.A.P."; The David Busby Street Centre; Youth Haven Shelter; The Salvation Army; Community Action Program for Children "CAPC"; New Path; and Transition Barrie.

In 2010, we started Barrie's first Biodiesel Cooperative in collaboration with Everpure Biodiesel Cooperative and Oilseed Works / Hempola / Flour Power. In our first year, we distributed over 4000 L of Biodiesel to our members.

I work on Georgian College's Sustainable Systems Advisory Committee. We meet to discuss curriculum and oversee this new course with the Bachelor of Technology program.

I am involved with the Barrie Alliance for Sustainability in Economy, Environment, & Energy or BASE 3, a committee organized by the Greater Barrie Camber of Commerce.

My parents are both long-time environmentalists and activists. Under their influence, I was brought up to thoroughly understanding the environmental and social challenges we face, as well as the many solutions we have today. I feel that my extensive knowledge on environmental policy, social relations, technology, green energy, organic farming, planning and sustainability will greatly benefit Barrie.

I pride myself in having discussions about issues, not debates, which lends well to working in a group. I am constantly taking in new information and broadening my perspective. I bring with me a perspective that true sustainability in this current socio-economic paradigm must include the environmental factor, the social and the economic.

I also have extensive business experience, am talented at creating partnerships and collaborations as well as getting creative, and having much success, with the challenge of financing.

Please visit the BarrieGreens.ca for all the updates and information about events !